Soft Stools for a Month – Possible Causes and Treatment Options

Experiencing soft or unformed stools consistently for a month can be concerning and may indicate an underlying digestive issue. Common causes include indigestion, acute or chronic gastroenteritis, gastrointestinal dysfunction, ulcerative colitis, and in some cases, intestinal tumors. It is highly recommended to visit a gastroenterologist to determine the exact cause and begin appropriate treatment.

Digestive Disorders Can Lead to Soft Stools

Indigestion caused by abnormal gastrointestinal motility or lack of digestive enzymes can result in persistent loose stools. In such cases, prokinetic agents like mosapride or digestive enzyme supplements may help improve digestion. Natural remedies such as hawthorn slices or chicken gizzards (used in traditional medicine) can also support digestion and alleviate symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Infections Require Medical Attention

Consuming contaminated food or overeating can lead to bacterial infections or inflammation in the stomach and intestines. This often results in prolonged abdominal pain and unformed stools. Doctors may recommend antibiotics like norfloxacin or berberine, along with anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide and vitamin B6 to manage symptoms effectively.

Functional Gastrointestinal Issues May Be the Cause

Gastrointestinal dysfunction, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can cause increased intestinal motility, leading to frequent loose stools. Herbal treatments like Sijunzi Decoction, Tongxie Yaofang, or Shenling Baizhu Powder may help regulate gut function. Additionally, over-the-counter digestive aids such as compound digestive enzymes or herbal oral solutions can provide relief.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Needs Specialized Care

Conditions like ulcerative colitis can cause chronic diarrhea with mucus in the stool. These situations often require mucosal protective agents such as compound glutamine to heal the intestinal lining and reduce symptoms. Early diagnosis and targeted therapy are crucial for managing inflammatory bowel diseases effectively.

If left untreated, intestinal tumors can also disrupt normal bowel habits, causing long-term abdominal discomfort and persistent soft stools. In such cases, comprehensive diagnostic tests and possibly surgical intervention are necessary to address the root cause.

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments play a key role in recovery. Gentle clockwise abdominal massage can stimulate digestion and relieve bloating. A diet rich in easily digestible foods—such as yams, noodles, eggs, and porridge—can support gut health and aid in symptom management.